Respiratory Physiotherapy

Respiratory physiotherapy is a type of physical therapy designed to assess and treat disorders of the respiratory system. Most approaches to respiratory physiotherapy employ a number of chest clearance techniques, along with exercises, and teach the patient rest positions to maximise the functional ability of their lungs. It aims to unclog the patient’s airways and help them return to physical activity and exertion. Respiratory physiotherapy is indicated for diseases that affect the respiratory system.

Examples include:

• Chronic bronchitis
• Emphysema
• Cystic fibrosis
• Asthma
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Pneumonia
• Inhaled foreign bodies
• Neuromuscular diseases

It is also useful for rehabilitation after complex surgical procedures, such as lung, heart and liver transplants, or other chest operations.